Master of Science in Leadership, Concentration in Global Leadership
Gain a broader global perspective and a foundation of knowledge to work in a global organization…
Join an online learning community of those working in the field and those interested in starting their international career as a globally-conscious leader. Gain an “international literacy,” one that moves beyond ethnocentrism and nationalism, and that recognizes and respects, even if it does not necessarily embrace, the cultures, customs and values of other nations. Participate in a program that takes a systems approach to teaching international leadership.
In this program, students learn to:
- Demonstrate strong cross-cultural communication, negotiation, leadership and team-building skills;
- Describe the intended and unintended potential cross-sectoral and international ripple effects of an organization’s policies and decisions;
- Demonstrate a working literacy of global issues and utilize this knowledge for critical thinking, thoughtful analysis, and globally-conscious decision-making;
- Collaborate effectively with their professional and organizational counterparts in other countries.
The 36-credit curriculum focuses on several main areas:
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Skills for Cross-cultural Interaction: Professionals often encounter difficulties when assigned to international or global operations because they lack the cultural and historical knowledge and the cross-cultural communication skills necessary to do their jobs effectively. Courses in this area will provide students with the knowledge and practice needed to interact in a more seamless manner with their counterparts abroad.
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Knowledge of Critical Global Issues: Many individuals, particularly in the U.S., lack a certain basic knowledge of the world outside of their own national borders, and of the forces and issues that drive global policies, economics and behavior. Possessing this knowledge can help leaders to make far more informed decisions in their own jobs, and to understand more clearly the impacts of those decisions on people, nations, and global systems.
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International Leadership Skills: Many individuals who are promoted to leadership positions in international or global organizations or departments tend to possess strong technical knowledge (e.g., knowledge of IT, of agriculture, or of engineering), but do not have the necessary skills to be effective leaders even in their home countries. When an international layer is added into the mix, their likelihood of effectiveness as leaders of global operations is greatly diminished. These courses are designed to develop students’ leadership skills, sense of “global-mindedness,” and their capacity for intellectual humility, integrity and empathy, enabling them to adjust their leadership and operational approaches in order to more successfully.
Program Structure
The academic year is structured with three semesters per year: two 15-week terms in fall and spring and one 8-week term in summer. Courses are entirely online.
As a student you'll have access to learning resources and support services including the Duquesne University Library, online writing center, and contact with faculty and advisors. You’ll join a peer-learning network of people from the community and corporate, nonprofit, government and military sectors. As a graduate you’ll join a network of more than 81,000 active alumni located around the globe.
"I have appreciated the thorough curriculum that has taken us through every component of global issues, intercultural relations, and leadership skills. I was just afforded a promotion this past January. I know it is because of the skills I have been developing, including looking towards a more global approach, that when applied to my own organization leveraged this opportunity to expand from directing one program to directing the operations of the entire company. This program has provided the right setting and support to create a new vision."
- Christine Taylor, Director of Operations, Arts Midwest